Tsumo

Shona proverbs are a reflection of Shona language, history and culture. They are a cherished and interesting part of Shona oral literature.

Mwana muduku kubvuma rwendo, rwake ruri mukati.

Translation A child accepts an errand that stands to benefit them. Inspiration Children generally dislike chores and running errands. A child will unhesitatingly agree to an errand that helps them … Read more

Mwana muduku kudziva musendo noruoko iwo uchazomudziva womene.

Definitions dziva: fend off musendo: a plane; a tool used for smoothing wood Translation A child who tries to fend off a plane with his hand will eventually be fended … Read more

Mwana washe muranda kumwe.

Word definitions muranda: servant ishe: chief Translation Outside his father’s territory, the son of  a chief is a servant. Application When one is outside the boundaries of their authority or … Read more

Mwana wegomba inhimbanapasi sehwevera.

Word definitions gomba: adulterer – lover of a married woman nhimbanapasi: This term can be translated as ‘dig (timba) from below’ hwevera: cutworm Translation An illegitimate child is like a … Read more

Mwena unorindirwa ndounobuda ishwa.

Definitions mwena: a burrow or hole in the ground. rindira: to watch over, wait for, or keep vigil. ishwa: edible flying termites that emerge seasonally and are a delicacy. Translation The burrow that … Read more

Mweni haaendi nedura.

Word definitions mweni: Guest. Visitor. dura: granary Translation A guest does not leave with the granary. Application A visitor does not stay for good. Hospitality will not exhaust one’s supplies. … Read more

Mwoyo imbesa, ungomera apo ungoda.

Translation The heart is like a tree, it sprouts where it chooses.. Application Each person will do as they please. Sometimes people make choices that will surprise everyone else, such … Read more

Mwoyo imota, unomera apo wada.

Translation The heart is like a boil, it grows where it chooses. Application Each person will do as they please. Sometimes people make choices that will surprise everyone else, such … Read more

Mwoyo muti, hautumwi pokumera.

Translation The heart is like a tree, the place at which it can germinate is not decided for it. Application Each person will do as they please. Sometimes people make … Read more

Mwoyo muti, unomera paunoda.

Translation The heart is like a tree, it sprouts where it chooses. Application Each person will do as they please. Sometimes people make choices that will surprise everyone else, such … Read more

Want to learn Shona culture and language?

Sign up for one of our courses and start learning.

My Newsletter

Join thousands of subscribers and receive my best stories. You can unsubscribe at any time.

    About Shungu

    IMG_3954 1

    ZimbOriginal was born from a passion for discovery and writing, and a commitment to never losing sight of who we are.

    It is a place for stories on culture, customs, traditions, and anything else indigenous to Zimbabwe. ZimbOriginal not only promotes cultural awareness, but also supports learning and discovery.

    Connect with us

    Categories